Athletic Secure crucial victory

Published:09:50Thursday 12 April 2012

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Athletic provided one of their best performances of the season just when it was needed with a single goal victory over fellow strugglers Newmacher and it was young Ross Mackenzie who picked the right time to score his first goal of the season and what a vital goal it may turn out to be.

Unfortunately, Cordiner failed a fitness test before the game and had to be content with a place on the bench.

The pitch was far from perfect, being flat and dry in one half but a quagmire along both wings on the other. This did not upset Athletic and although under early pressure from the home side they dealt well with the home sides efforts.

Taylor was again in goal and his experience gave a calming influence to the Athletic rearguard. Newmacher did break clear midway through the half but Taylor blocked the striker’s good effort from 12 yards.

Mitchell making a rare appearance for Athletic set up Reid, however his effort went wide. The home side stepped up their attacks as the break approached, however Holtes and Bowron held things together well.

Half Time 0 - 0

The second period began well for Athletic with Jolly and MacLeod working hard in midfield to create opening for Neish and Reid, however clear cut opportunities were few. Newmacher almost went in front on the hour however Taylor leapt acrobatically to touch the ball onto the bar and Duncan cleared.

With 20 minutes left Athletic had to replace Holtes and Nicoll through injury with Steer and Ross coming on. Bowron continued to be unbeatable at the back and this inspired the whole team.

With 10 minutes left MacLeod picked up a knock and was replaced be Toner and two minutes later Athletic got the all important goal.

Neish chased a long through ball and when it broke off the keeper it fell to Ross MacKenzie some 14 yards out and he steered a great shot low into the corner of the net.

The home side through everything forward in search of the equaliser but Athletic held on for the 3 priceless points.

Final Score 0 - 1

This was a great all round team effort by Athletic with every player giving 100% effort. Taylor in goal was immense and Man of the Match for Athletic was Bowron who had his best 90 minutes of the season.